வில்லேர் உழவர் பகைகொளினும் கொள்ளற்க
சொல்லேர் உழவர் பகை. 872
Incur the hate of bow-ploughers But not the hate of word-ploughers
விலலை ஆயுதமாகக் கொண்ட வீரரோடு பகை கொண்டாலும், சொல்லை ஆயுதமாகக் கொண்ட எழுத்தாளரோடு பகை கொள்ள வேண்டா.
- சாலமன் பாப்பையா
படைக்கலன்களை உடைய வீரர்களிடம் கூடப் பகை கொள்ளலாம் ஆனால் சொல்லாற்றல் மிக்க அறிஞர் பெருமக்களுடன் பகை கொள்ளக் கூடாது
- மு.கருணாநிதி
வில்லை ஏராக உடைய உழவராகிய வீரருடன் பகை கொண்ட போதிலும், சொல்லை ஏராக உடைய உழவராகிய அறிஞருடன் பகை கொள்ளக் கூடாது.
- மு.வரதராசனார்
Though you may incur the hatred of warriors whose ploughs are bows, incur not that of ministers whose ploughs are words
- Unknown
This Thiru Kural verse emphasizes the power of words over physical might. The verse states that while it may be tolerable to bear the enmity of warriors, whose primary weapon is physical force symbolized by their bows, it is not advisable to antagonize ministers or scholars, whose primary weapon is their words.
The metaphor of warriors' bows and ministers' words as their respective 'ploughs' is used to underline their primary tools of influence. A plough is a tool used in farming to prepare the soil for sowing seeds. Similarly, a warrior uses his bow to establish order and a minister uses his words to shape ideas and policies.
The verse suggests that the impact of words can be more potent and long-lasting than physical force. A physical attack can cause harm, but it is transient and can be healed over time. However, the impact of words, especially those of influential ministers or scholars, can shape public opinion, alter perceptions, and have far-reaching consequences that can last generations.
In a broader sense, the verse underscores the importance of maintaining good relations with those who wield influence through their wisdom and knowledge. It advises us to respect the power of words and the impact they can have on our lives and society at large. It also implies the significance of diplomacy and tact over aggression and hostility.
- ChatGPT 4